Gin is a popular spirit that is commonly used in cocktails like the gin and tonic or martini. Tanqueray is one of the most well-known gin brands worldwide. When producing gin, the base spirit is first distilled from grain. Then, botanicals like juniper, coriander, citrus peel, and spices are added through re-distillation to give gin its distinctive flavor profile. This leads many gin drinkers to wonder – is Tanqueray gin made with wheat?
What grains are used to make gin?
Traditionally, gin was made primarily from grain spirits distilled from barley or rye. However, most modern gins use neutral spirit distilled from grains like wheat, corn, or grapes as the base. The choice of grain depends on what is most readily available in the region where the gin is produced.
The neutral spirit provides a clean, flavorless canvas which allows the aromatic botanicals to shine through. Using an unaged neutral spirit, rather than an aged spirit like whiskey, gives gin a lighter, crisper taste.
So while barley and rye were historically common, the use of wheat and other grains is now widespread in gin production.
Is Tanqueray made with wheat?
Yes, Tanqueray London Dry Gin is made using wheat spirit as its base.
According to Tanqueray, their gin begins with a wheat-based spirit which is distilled four times in a continuous still. This highly rectified spirit helps contribute to Tanqueray’s crisp, dry taste profile.
The neutral wheat spirit is then redistilled in a copper pot still along with the brand’s signature botanicals. These include juniper, coriander, angelica root, and licorice. The juniper berries are what gives Tanqueray its distinctive pine and citrus aromas.
So while traditional gins used barley or rye, Tanqueray relies on wheat spirit as the blank canvas for its botanicals. This approach yields Tanqueray’s crisp, balanced flavor that has made it one of the most iconic gin brands available today.
Other common questions about Tanqueray Gin
Here are answers to some other frequently asked questions about Tanqueray London Dry Gin:
Is Tanqueray gluten free?
Because Tanqueray uses wheat spirit as its base, it is not considered gluten-free. The distillation process removes gluten proteins, but trace amounts may still be present that could affect people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Those with gluten concerns should opt for a certified gluten-free gin.
What botanicals are used in Tanqueray Gin?
Tanqueray Gin is distilled four times with the following signature botanicals:
– Juniper – Provides aromatic pine and citrus notes. Juniper is the dominant flavor in gin.
– Coriander – Adds floral, spicy flavors
– Angelica Root – Earthy, bitter notes
– Licorice – Sweet, smooth taste
Other botanicals like orange peel, lemon peel, and orris root are also sometimes included in small amounts.
What is the alcohol percentage of Tanqueray Gin?
Tanqueray London Dry Gin has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 47.3%. This is a higher ABV than many other spirits, which are commonly 40% ABV. The higher alcohol content contributes to Tanqueray’s bold, dry profile.
How is Tanqueray gin made today?
Tanqueray continues to be made with the same process developed by founder Charles Tanqueray in 1830s London:
– Wheat, corn and grape spirit are distilled in a continuous still to produce a neutral grain spirit
– The grain spirit is distilled four more times in a copper pot still
– During the final distillation, the spirit passes through a basket containing Tanqueray’s signature botanicals
– This process extracts the flavor and aromas of the botanicals into the spirit
– The distillate is then diluted with water to the bottling strength of 94.6 proof (47.3% ABV)
Where is Tanqueray produced today?
Tanqueray was originally distilled in London, which lent its name to Tanqueray London Dry Gin. Today, production has shifted to Cameronbridge, Scotland. But the brand continues to use the same process and botanicals as when it was made in London.
What is the difference between Tanqueray London Dry Gin and Tanqueray No. Ten Gin?
Tanqueray No. Ten Gin is considered a premium craft gin in the brand’s portfolio. While both contain the same four core botanicals, No. Ten includes fresh citrus fruits like grapefruit, orange, lime and chamomile flowers. It is distilled in small batches in a tiny pot still named “Tiny Ten”. No. Ten has a more citrusy, floral taste compared to the classic London Dry Gin.
How to drink Tanqueray Gin
As a bold, aromatic London dry gin, Tanqueray is well-suited to a variety of classic gin cocktails:
Gin and tonic
The simple gin and tonic is a perfect way to enjoy Tanqueray’s flavors. Build in a tall glass with plenty of ice, fresh lime, and quality tonic water. The bitterness and bubbles of tonic complement Tanqueray’s botanicals. Adjust proportions to taste.
Negroni
Equal parts Tanqueray, sweet vermouth, and Campari make a balanced, flavorful Negroni. Stir together over ice and garnish with an orange twist. The gin’s juniper notes contrast nicely with the sweet and bitter components.
Martinez
A martinez highlights Tanqueray in a lively mix of sweet and herbal flavors. Shake 2 parts gin, 1 part sweet vermouth, 1/4 part maraschino liqueur, and 2 dashes orange bitters with ice. Strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a lemon twist or brandied cherry.
Aviation
The aviation cocktail lets Tanqueray’s botanicals shine through a sweet and floral mix. Shake 2 parts gin, 1/2 part each maraschino liqueur and fresh lemon juice with a splash of crème de violette. Serve straight up.
Tom Collins
Tanqueray’s backbone balances the sweetness in a Tom Collins. Combine 2 parts gin, 1 part lemon juice, 1/2 part simple syrup, and 3 parts club soda. Serve over ice with lemon wheel garnish.
French 75
For a flavorful twist, use Tanqueray in place of cognac in a French 75. Shake gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup, then strain into a chilled glass and top with sparkling wine. Garnish with a lemon twist.
Ramos Gin Fizz
While time consuming to make, a Ramos Gin Fizz is a luxurious treat. Shake 2 parts gin, 1 part each lemon and lime juice, 1/2 part simple syrup, 1 egg white, and a few drops of orange flower water vigorously with ice. Strain into a chilled glass and top with soda water.
Key Takeaways
In summary, here are the key facts about Tanqueray gin and wheat:
– Tanqueray London Dry Gin uses wheat spirit as its base rather than traditional barley or rye.
– The wheat spirit provides a light, crisp, neutral canvas for Tanqueray’s signature botanicals.
– Botanicals like juniper, coriander, and citrus impart flavor during the distillation process.
– While the wheat base makes it not gluten-free, Tanqueray offers a bold and aromatic gin profile.
– Tanqueray continues to be distilled in Scotland using the same process developed in 19th century London.
– Classic gin cocktails like the gin and tonic, Negroni, and Aviation allow Tanqueray’s flavors to shine.
So in answer to the original question – yes, Tanqueray gin is made with wheat. The wheat spirit along with its distinctive botanicals gives Tanqueray its crisp, balanced flavor profile that has made it an iconic gin brand.
